24
Jul
Minister reveals tough green standards for eco-towns
Tough standards for green eco-towns have been revealed by housing
minister Caroline Flint.
Included in the proposals is an allocation of 40 per cent of land
within a town to be reserved for a green space.
Also, each house should be within a ten minute walk of public
transport and more options should be provided to allow residents to
take alternative green methods of transportation such as walking
and cycling.
A zero carbon status should be implemented in all buildings with
towns, including residential and commercial properties.
Ms Flint said: "Given that housing contributes 27 per cent of our
carbon emissions we must also take this opportunity to trial new
ways of tackling climate change."
Ten possible locations for eco-towns will be put forward in
2009.
Planning and housing charity the Town and Country Planning
Association said it welcomed Ms Flint's report.
It added that having 40 per cent dedicated to green spaces will
help to reduce the risk of urban flooding and having parks will
help to keep summer temperatures cool.
